Skip to main content

$162K Lost in Fake Social Media Ads!



The Singapore Police have issued a public alert regarding a rise in phishing scams through social media advertisements, with at least 173 reports filed since September 1, 2024, and total losses amounting to at least $162,000. The scams involve fraudulent ads or sponsored posts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, offering significant discounts on products such as accessories, electronics, food, and cleaning supplies.

Victims, drawn in by the attractive offers, click on the provided links and are directed to phishing websites that prompt them to enter their bank card details and One-Time Passwords (OTPs) for "purchases." Alternatively, some victims are asked to complete a short survey and are told they qualify for an even bigger discount, leading them to provide payment details for delivery fees. Ultimately, the victims realize they've been scammed after unauthorized charges appear on their accounts, or the items they "purchased" never arrive.

Precautionary Measures:

The Police advise the public to take the following steps to avoid falling victim to these scams:

  • ADD: Install the ScamShield app, set up transaction limits, enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) or Multifactor Authentication for banking apps, and disable overseas transactions for credit/debit cards. Never share your bank details or OTPs with others.

  • CHECK: Use official sources like the ScamShield Helpline (1799) or website to verify suspicious messages, ads, or links. Contact the merchant directly to ensure the legitimacy of the advertisement.

  • TELL: Inform authorities, family, and friends about scams. Report any suspicious transactions to your bank immediately and flag fraudulent ads on social media platforms.

For more information or to report suspicious activity, visit www.scamshield.gov.sg, call the ScamShield Helpline at 1799, or contact the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000. For urgent assistance, dial ‘999’. 



Labels:
Location: Singapore

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

New Punggol Northshore BTO Plagued by Water Seepage and Electrical Hazards

  ***Update: HDB, Maincon and Consultant has came down to the unit to check. Will update on status once we have more information. A Punggol Northshore BTO homeowner, who moved into his newly renovated flat in July 2024, has voiced frustration over severe water leakage issues that have left his unit unsafe and unlivable. Water has been observed seeping from an electrical powerpoint, with puddles forming on the floor and walls showing bubbling and signs of damage from moisture. The source of the leak appears to be an external wall adjacent to the master bedroom, according to assessments by the main contractor. However, the leakage has already caused significant damage to the flat's walls and paintwork, leaving the homeowner distressed. Adding to the frustration, the main contractor advised the homeowner to avoid using the affected power switches in the living room and bedroom due to the risk of a short circuit. Despite the warning, the homeowner has no choice but to turn on the light...
Post a Comment
Read more

The Gateway to Singapore’s Digital Future, Punggol Coast MRT Station Opens Today!

  The Punggol Coast MRT station, the 17th station on the North East Line (NEL), officially opened on December 10, 2024. Located in the heart of the Punggol Digital District (PDD), it extends the NEL’s total length to 22 km and enhances accessibility for over 200,000 households within a 10-minute walk of an NEL station. Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean, speaking at the launch, emphasized the station's role in transforming Punggol Town into a vibrant, connected, and sustainable hub. Travel time for Punggol North residents to Outram Park is now reduced to 45 minutes, down from 60 minutes. Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat highlighted the foresight in planning Singapore’s transport infrastructure, such as provisions made two decades ago for the Cross Island Line interchange at Punggol MRT station. This long-term approach underscores Singapore’s commitment to future generations. The station integrates seamlessly with PDD, a 50-hectare smart and sustainable district focusing on digital indus...
Post a Comment
Read more

Crackdown on Illegal Ride-Hailing with 4 Drivers Caught in LTA Operation

  In a recent operation conducted by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Singapore, four drivers were caught and had their vehicles impounded for providing illegal ride-hailing services. These unauthorized services operated both within Singapore and across the border to Malaysia, posing significant risks to passengers. The LTA has issued a stern warning to the public, advising against using such illegal services due to the lack of proper licensing and insurance, which can leave passengers vulnerable in the event of accidents. The operation underscores LTA’s commitment to ensuring the safety and regulation of ride-hailing services in Singapore. Drivers caught offering illegal ride-hailing services without a valid Public Service Vehicle (PSV) Licence face severe penalties, including fines of up to $3,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both. These measures are in place to deter unlicensed operators and protect passengers from potential harm. Illegal ride-hailing services oft...
1 comment
Read more